The shortlist for the first annual Local Employment Partnerships (LEP) awards has been announced.

Amongst the 20 UK employers to make it onto the shortlist are Tesco, Nissan Motors and Marriott Hotels.

LEP is a government initiative, based on a deal with employers that sees the government, through Jobcentre Plus, take steps to understand employers’ requirements and get disadvantaged people ready for work, whilst employers with vacancies must give people a fair shot at the job.

The shortlisters are in with a chance to win one of four employer, or two individual, awards which recognise outstanding contributions made by employers, employees and partners involved in LEPs.

Stephen Timms, minister for employment and welfare reform, said: “Each of the shortlisted employers has demonstrated a commitment to their local community through Local Employment Partnerships. The LEP awards recognise those employers who go the extra mile to help some of the most disadvantaged jobseekers back into work, as well as celebrating the personal achievements of employees whose lives are being transformed through the scheme.”

Other shortlisters include Captial Life and Pensions, Debenhams and Coventry City Council, as well as employees from Asda and Randstad Inhouse Services.

The winners will be announced at an awards presentation in London on 1 July and will be selected by a judging panel, which includes minister for skills David Lammy, Jackie Orme, chief executive of the CIPD, and Helen Reynolds, acting chief executive of the Recruitment and Employment Federation, amongst others.

For further information about the awards visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk